In Canada, the driving legislation is undergoing substantial changes, starting in October 2025, and the new legislation will make the rules tougher in relation to avoiding any distractions and other risky actions on the roads. These amendments are accompanied by heavier fines, with the punishment now up to as much as $2,000 in case of violations like using handheld devices when driving, non-wearing of seatbelts and other dangerous behavior. The aim of the government is to make the roadways safer and make sure that motorists are not distracted when they are behind the steering wheel.
Key Stricter Rules
– Prohibition of eating, drinking, and vaping in cars: These activities are now considered as distractors, and they are fined and demoted.
– Stricter punishment of cell phone use: The fines of driving with the usage of handheld devices can reach two thousand dollars, and the number of demerits is determined according to the province.
– Mandatory seatbelt implementation: Non-compliance results in heavier fines and penalties, penalties will be implemented by blitzing the high-traffic zones.
– Reduced speed limits within school and work zones: A number of regions have revised speed limits, and this is aimed at providing better pedestrian and labor protection.
Enforcement and Technology
The update brings the use of the wide use of the AI-powered traffic cameras which can identify various violations at the same time such as speeding, phone use, and seatbelt violations. These are the cameras mounted on the highways and the suburban roads to ensure maximum coverage is taken.
Impact on Drivers
Violations in the new laws are subjected to higher financial fines, demerit points, and their license may be suspended especially to those who commit the offense repeatedly and commercial drivers. These law changes are accompanied by public awareness campaigns in order to teach the drivers about the new rules and consequences.
Table of the Amounts of Penalty
| Offence | Maximum Fine (CAD) | Demerit Points |
|---|---|---|
| Handheld Phone Use | Up to $2,000 | 4-6 |
| Eating/Drinking/Vaping | Up to $1,500 | 2-4 |
| Seatbelt Non-compliance | $1,000 – $1,500 | 3-5 |
FAQs
Q1: Do these fines exist throughout Canada?
No, fines and demerit points are different in each province, but tend to be more in line with the tougher, national standards.
Q2: Do cameras play the key role as the tool of enforcement?
Yes, AI and speed cameras will be popular in the enforcement in real time.
Q3: Does the new speed limit in school zones become effective?
They are effective beginning October 20, 2025, which coincides with other changes in the law.
